The KORKUT 140/35 air defense system integrated onto an 8x8 tactical wheeled vehicle by ASELSAN successfully neutralized an aerial target during live-fire tests while on the move.

Türkiye’s first unmanned fighter aircraft, Bayraktar KIZILELMA, has completed serial production. Two production aircraft are scheduled for delivery to the Turkish Armed Forces in the first quarter of 2026. Türkiye’s leading defense company Baykar continues to strengthen its global position in unmanned aerial systems with the Bayraktar KIZILELMA project. According to statements made by Baykar Flight Training and Test Center Unit Leader Halil Akar, five KIZILELMA prototypes have been produced to date, followed by the completion of two serial production aircraft. These aircraft are expected to be delivered to the Turkish Armed Forces in the first quarter of 2026. Flight tests of both Bayraktar KIZILELMA and AKINCI UCAVs are being carried out at Baykar’s Flight Training and Test Center located in Çorlu, Tekirdağ. Operating around the clock with nearly 200 personnel, the center serves not only as a testing hub but also as a training facility for pilots and technicians from Türkiye and abroad. To date, more than 2,000 personnel have successfully completed pilot and technician training programs for the AKINCI platform. Training programs for KIZILELMA pilots and technicians are planned to begin in 2026. Technically, KIZILELMA stands out as a next-generation unmanned combat aircraft. With a wingspan of approximately 10 meters and a maximum takeoff weight of 8.5 tons, it is comparable in size to an F-16-class fighter jet. The aircraft offers a payload capacity of 1.5 tons and features eight weapon hardpoints, including two internal bays designed to reduce radar visibility. This low-observable design significantly enhances survivability and mission effectiveness in contested environments. Operating at an altitude of up to 25,000 feet, with potential for future increases, KIZILELMA incorporates advanced artificial intelligence systems to support flight control and mission execution. While two pilots are involved during takeoff and landing phases, a single pilot is sufficient during operational missions. Having completed its maiden flight on December 14, 2022, KIZILELMA’s transition into serial production and its upcoming induction into service mark a major milestone for Türkiye’s air combat capabilities and its defense industry ambitions.

With 35 years of experience, STM strengthens Türkiye’s global position in naval defense by delivering indigenous warship and submarine projects with high localization rates.

According to CSIS analysts, the proposed Trump-class battleship for the US Navy may cost as much as a Ford-class aircraft carrier and face major development challenges.

South Korea’s LIG Nex1 has secured major contracts to develop an electronic warfare aircraft for the RoKAF and systems for the SRAAM-II missile, enhancing KF-21 capabilities.

The UK–Germany RCH 155 demonstrator programme highlights Europe’s shift toward highly mobile, automated artillery systems designed for rapid deployment and reduced crew requirements.

Belgium has decided to remove its NH90 NFH helicopters from the SAR mission and procure four new helicopters by 2026 to enhance rescue and emergency response capabilities.

The US Department of Defense has awarded Boeing a USD 8.58 billion FMS contract for 25 F-15IA fighter jets for Israel, with an option for 25 more aircraft.

France has officially contracted Saab GlobalEye aircraft to replace its ageing E-3F AWACS fleet. Deliveries will take place between 2029 and 2032.

The Royal Netherlands Navy frigate HNLMS Evertsen conducted live-fire drills against unmanned air and surface systems during the UK-led Sharpshooter exercise, marking a NATO first.

The UK Ministry of Defence has handed over the Excalibur XLUUV to the Royal Navy. Developed under Project Cetus, the platform marks a major step in naval autonomy and AUKUS cooperation.

Footage released by UAE’s Edge Group strongly suggests that a Bayraktar TB2 UAV has entered service at Liwa Air Base, marking a notable development in Emirati air power.